Maricopa County Urges Caution for July 4th Celebrations

This upcoming July 4th weekend, Maricopa County is encouraging residents to be mindful of air quality by reducing activities that generate pollution.

Following a series of dusty days, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality warning earlier this week.

According to Ali Halpert from Maricopa County, locals are advised to forego personal fireworks and instead opt for professional firework displays.

She noted that personal fireworks, unlike their commercial counterparts, tend to explode closer to the ground, releasing smoke at breathing level. This could pose health risks as PM2.5 particles, which are harmful, can linger in the air for an extended time.

Additionally, Halpert suggested steering clear of activities such as driving and wood burning. If you’re grilling, it’s better to use gas or propane to minimize smoke emissions.

As conditions worsen due to continued dryness and stagnant air, Halpert warned that further advisories might be issued this summer.

Pet Safety During Fireworks

While fireworks are a hallmark of July 4th celebrations, they often induce fear and anxiety in pets, leading many to attempt to flee their homes. A survey conducted by Rover in 2025 revealed that 67% of pet owners believe their pets are frightened by fireworks.

Fireworks can reach shocking volumes of 120-175 decibels, which is particularly distressing for dogs and cats, known for their heightened sensitivity to sound.

Erin Denmark, from Halo Animal Rescue, highlighted the importance of microchipping and keeping pet registration details updated. This is especially crucial around holidays when pets might go missing.

“If your pet goes missing, having updated information can make a big difference,” Denmark said. “It’s vital to ensure your mobile number and address are correct so you can easily reunite.”

For those who cannot access shelters or veterinarians before the holiday, Denmark offered a few tips to keep pets comfortable at home. Simple actions like turning on the TV or playing calming music can create a soothing atmosphere.

“Just make sure you’re there with them and that their tags and collars have current information,” she suggested.

Animal shelters are also taking steps to protect pets during holidays. For example, at Hello Animal Rescue in North Phoenix, calming music is played overnight to soothe cats and dogs available for adoption, while staff ensure they receive socialization during the day to reduce anxiety.

Whether you’re celebrating at home or with friends, pet owners are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Keeping pets inside, offering comforts, and ensuring adequate identification are all essential to prevent them from escaping during festivities.

Upcoming Celebrations Across Arizona

As cities throughout Arizona gear up for July 4th with various events including festivals and fireworks displays, there are plenty of activities planned, many of which are free, across the state.